The differences between COVID-19 and influenza are quite subtle, according to World Health Organization. And that’s especially true in the early stages, when we might need urgent medical attention. We highlight the differences as we have before, because controlling the coronavirus is fast becoming a number one world priority.
Overlaps between the Two Infectious Diseases
Both flu and the coronavirus are infectious diseases. This means they are caused by alien organisms that enter our bodies, and disturb the natural order. However, they are even more similar than that.
That’s because both their viruses travel between people through contact, mutually touched surfaces, and in droplets of moisture on their breath.
Both also cause a range of physical side effects, ranging from asymptomatic or mild to severe disease and even death. However, perhaps the greatest similarity is we can help control both these chain reactions by doing a few simple things.
1… Cleansing our hands and forearms with soap and water, or alcohol rub to block transfer from surfaces and people
2… Remaining a distance from people who might be infected. Covering our noses and mouths with face masks to prevent airborne infection.
The Differences between COVID-19 and Influenza
Influenza incubates without showing symptoms for an average three days, while COVID can hibernate for double that time. Children are also more likely to spread flu, while they are more inclined to catch COVID-19 from adults.
The likelihood of severe, life-threatening illness is higher with the coronavirus than with influenza. This is one of the most worrisome differences between COVID-19 and flu, because intensive care facilities are not open-ended.
People most at risk from severe influenza include children, pregnant women, elderly people, and those with comorbidities or immune-suppression. Whereas the World Health Organization (WHO) believes older age and underlying conditions are higher risks for severe COVID infection.
The WHO says 80% of COVID infections are mild or asymptomatic. While 15% are severe requiring oxygen, and 5% are critical infections requiring ventilation. The key is preventing them in the first place.
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